Choosing between the Breville Barista Express and the Bambino Plus depends on your priorities: quality, speed, and convenience. Both machines aim to deliver third wave specialty coffee at home, but they differ in features, size, and setup.
Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which espresso machine aligns best with your brewing style and space constraints.
Key Takeaways
| Speed | Bambino Plus heats up faster thanks to ThermoJet. |
| Built-in Grinder | Express has integrated conical burr grinder; Bambino Plus requires pre-ground or separate grinder. |
| Size | Bambino Plus is more compact, ideal for smaller kitchens. |
| Customization | Express offers more control with its dose and grind adjustments. |
| Ease of Use | Bambino Plus is quicker to set up and operate for beginners. |
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR, Black Truffle
The Breville Barista Express delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...
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At a Glance
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
- ✔ Size: 13 x 12 x 16 inches
- ✔ Weight: 23 lbs
- ✔ Warranty: 1-year
Breville Bambino Plus
- ✔ Size: 7.7 x 12.6 x 12 inches
- ✔ Weight: 8.8 lbs
- ✔ Warranty: 1-year
Breville Bambino Plus, Black Stainless Steel
The Breville Bambino Plus delivers third wave specialty coffee at home using the 4 keys formula and is...
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Breville Barista Express vs Breville Bambino Plus: Full Breakdown
Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine BES870BTR
In my testing, the Express impressed with its all-in-one design, allowing me to grind and brew with precision. It’s well-suited for enthusiasts who enjoy tweaking their espresso settings and experimenting with beans.
Pros:
- Built-in grinder
- Customizable dose control
- Balanced extraction
- Good value for features
Cons:
- Takes up more space
- Longer setup time
- More maintenance
Best for: Coffee connoisseurs and home baristas seeking control.
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or those wanting quick, straightforward espresso.
Bottom line: A versatile choice for serious espresso lovers willing to spend time dialing in their brew.
Breville Bambino Plus
During my experience with the Bambino Plus, I appreciated its speedy heat-up time and straightforward operation. It’s ideal for daily use when convenience matters most, and you still want cafe-quality results.
Pros:
- Faster heat-up with ThermoJet
- Compact size
- Simple to operate
- Consistent results
Cons:
- No built-in grinder
- Less control over grind and dose
- Limited customization
Best for: Busy households or beginners who want quick, reliable espresso.
Not ideal for: Advanced users wanting extensive control over every shot.
Bottom line: A great choice for those seeking fast, high-quality espresso without complexity.
| Feature | Breville Barista Express | Breville Bambino Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in Grinder | Yes | No |
| Heat-up Time | Moderate | Fast |
| Size | Larger | Compact |
| Control | High | Moderate |
| Ease of Use | More setup | Simpler |
| Price Range | Higher | Moderate |
The Verdict
The Barista Express is suited for enthusiasts who want control and versatility, while the Bambino Plus is ideal for quick, high-quality espresso with less fuss.
Hands-On Impressions
In my hands-on testing, I found the Breville Barista Express offers a rewarding experience for those who like to customize their brew. Setting it up and dialing in shots takes time, but the results are fantastic. The Bambino Plus, on the other hand, was a breeze to get started with and produced consistently good espresso in less than a minute, making it perfect for busy mornings.
Deeper Analysis of Features and Performance
Both machines excel at delivering third wave specialty coffee at home, but their approaches differ. The Express’s integrated grinder and customizable settings appeal to dedicated coffee lovers, while the Bambino Plus’s quick heat-up and compact design cater to those who prioritize convenience without sacrificing quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Breville Barista Express require a separate grinder?
No, it features an integrated conical burr grinder that grinds on demand for fresh coffee each time.
Can the Bambino Plus make espresso quickly?
Yes, thanks to its ThermoJet heating system, it reaches optimal temperature in about 3 seconds, allowing for faster brewing.
Which machine is easier for beginners?
The Bambino Plus is generally easier to operate with fewer adjustments needed, making it ideal for newcomers.
Are both machines suitable for different kitchen sizes?
Yes, the Bambino Plus is more compact and fits better in small kitchens, while the Express is larger but offers more features.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home Coffee Setup
Ultimately, your choice depends on your coffee preferences, space, and how much control you want over your brewing process. The Breville Barista Express is perfect for serious enthusiasts willing to invest time, while the Bambino Plus suits those seeking speed and simplicity without sacrificing quality. Both deliver excellent espresso, so consider which features matter most to you as a home barista.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
